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Friday, 10 November 2017

Sumire Sato Announces Retirement from Entertainment Industry, SKE48

Sumire Sato will be graduating from SKE48 and she's also leaving the entertainment industry.

The announcement was made on November 6th during Team E's performance at SKE48 Theater.

After the show, Sato wrote on the blog: "During today's performance, I announced my graduation from SKE48 as well as my resignation from Horipro. I think I've surprised my fans and persons concerned with the sudden announcement. I'm sorry. I thought about it for a long time in my own way."
Sato entered the industry as a child actor, just six years old and she stayed in the industry for 18 years.

"It's been 18 years. This industry is beautiful, yet cruel. It has taught me many things. Each experience and each encounter has made me who I am," she said. "Moreover, thanks to everyone who have supported me, I was able to make all of my dreams come true. I am grateful from the bottom of my heart. Thank you."
She continued, "I don't have anything left undone. When I looked ahead at my life, I decided to start moving 'now' at 24-years-old. I will return to being a normal girl."

Sato passed AKB48's 7th generation audition back in 2008, then during a shuffle in 2014 she moved to SKE48. Sato's graduation concert will be held on December 15th at the AKB48 Theater. The 7th generation will also hold their 10th anniversary concert on the same day. Another graduation concert is held on December 19th at SKE48 Theater.

"Of course, I feel sad, but I will enjoy the time I have left as an idol! What's left for me to do is what I can leave behind for my beloved 'kohai' ('juniors'). That is the last mission I have to accomplish. I love them from the bottom of my heart," she stated.